At a Glance
- Tasks: Support children and families through assessment, planning, and advocacy in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join the Department of Opportunities and Social Development in Nova Scotia.
- Benefits: Flexible work options, competitive salary, and comprehensive health benefits.
- Other info: Work in beautiful Bridgewater, with endless opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families.
- Qualifications: Master's or Bachelor's in Social Work with relevant experience; new graduates encouraged to apply.
The predicted salary is between 2000 - 2800 £ per month.
Department: Opportunities and Social Development
Location: BRIDGEWATER
Type of Employment: Permanent
Union Status: NSGEU - NSPG
Closing Date: 26-Feb-26 (Applications are accepted until 11:59 PM Atlantic Time)
About Us
At the Department of Opportunities and Social Development (OSD), we provide a broad portfolio of programs and services including Child and Family Wellbeing (CFW), Employment Support Services (ESS), Income Assistance (IA), Homelessness and Supportive Housing, and Disability Support Program (DSP). We advocate and help vulnerable Nova Scotians be independent, self-reliant, and secure.
About Our Opportunity
We are hiring dedicated Child Protection Social Workers to join our team in the following program areas, including Assessment, Ongoing Support, and Children in Care. In this vital role, you will provide a wide array of professional child and family wellbeing services. You will be involved in planning for and supervising children in the care of the Minister, liaising with various partners and communities, and advocating on behalf of children and families. As a role model, you will support and demonstrate a workplace culture that is inclusive, respectful, safe, and supportive. Under the provisions of the Children and Family Services Act (CFSA) and An Act respecting First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Children, Youth, and Families (FNIM), your role will actively work towards ensuring children's safety and wellbeing, provide ongoing supports to parents and children, and collaborate with program areas to determine appropriate and safe places for children to live.
Primary Accountabilities
- Assessing child safety and wellbeing concerns and working with families and communities to address them
- Collaborating with and supporting individuals and families
- Planning and developing case plans with families
- Working closely with the community and advocating for connections to community resources
- Participating in risk assessments, court testimonies, and evaluations
- Planning with and supervising children in care of the Minister
Qualifications and Experience
A completed Master of Social Work, or a Bachelor of Social Work with at least two (2) years of related experience, along with a driver's license are required. You must be eligible for registration with the Nova Scotia College of Social Workers (NSCSW). Current social work students with anticipated graduation this year, with at least two (2) years of related experience, are encouraged to apply!
You are:
- A strong team player
- Empowered to drive positive change
- Compassionate, reliable, and resourceful
You possess a deep understanding of child development, family dynamics, trauma-informed care, and community resources. You are well-versed in effective intervention strategies. Your excellent problem-solving skills, combined with creative thinking, enhance the support provided to children and families, contributing to their overall well-being and growth.
Working Conditions
A typical workday is between 8am - 5pm. Most of your work will involve meeting with clients in their homes or with service providers, requiring substantial driving time, sometimes in adverse weather conditions. While in the office, you will benefit from a comfortable work environment with flexible working options available. On a rotating schedule, you may be required to provide child and family wellbeing services for your designated area, after regular business hours. This will include working on weekends and reporting to the provincial after-hours response team. You may also be called upon to work beyond regular business hours on short notice. Personal resilience is crucial to meet the physical and emotional demands of this position. You will be immersed in high-stress and crisis situations, with extensive support and resources at your disposal. You must be able to work under pressure and be both personally and professionally committed to working inclusively with culturally diverse individuals.
What We Offer
- Lifestyle & location: Come and work on the breathtaking South Shore of Nova Scotia. Bridgewater is considered the beating heart of the South Shore.
- A social work career without limits; endless opportunities to grow and develop within the Province of Nova Scotia through coaching, training, and advancement opportunities
- Reimbursement for your registration fees to the NS College of Social Workers.
- Flexible working arrangements including modified work weeks.
- Out-of-province applicants may be eligible to apply for moving expenses.
- Ability to earn overtime and shift premiums for weekend and after-hours work.
- Travel and car allowance.
- Three (3) weeks vacation to start, and annual pay progression.
- Employee and Family Assistance Programs (EFAP)
- Health, Dental, Life Insurance, General illness, Short and Long Term Disability
Salary Range: $2,792.85- $3,905.61 Bi-Weekly
Employment Equity Statement: Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative, at all job levels, of the citizens we serve. The Government of Nova Scotia has an Employment Equity Policy, and we welcome applications from Indigenous People, African Nova Scotians and Other Racially Visible Persons, Persons with Disabilities and Women in occupations or positions where they are under-represented.
Accommodation Statement: We are committed to providing an inclusive and accessible recruitment process. Candidates may request accommodations based on any grounds protected by the Human Rights Act.
Child Protection Social Worker 1-2 in Cowfold employer: Nova Scotia
At the Department of Opportunities and Social Development in Bridgewater, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture. Our team of Child Protection Social Workers enjoys numerous benefits, including flexible working arrangements, professional development opportunities, and a beautiful location near world-class beaches and amenities. We are committed to empowering our employees to make a meaningful impact in the lives of vulnerable Nova Scotians while providing extensive support and resources to ensure their success.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Child Protection Social Worker 1-2 in Cowfold
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the social work field, attend local events, and join relevant online groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and scenarios related to child protection. Role-play with a friend or mentor to build confidence and refine your responses. Remember, showing your passion for child wellbeing can really set you apart!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on organisations that align with your values and goals. When you find a role that excites you, tailor your approach to highlight how your skills fit their mission. We recommend applying through our website for the best chance!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A simple thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you top of mind. Use this opportunity to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and remind them why you’re the perfect fit for their team.
We think you need these skills to ace Child Protection Social Worker 1-2 in Cowfold
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of a Child Protection Social Worker. We want to see how you can contribute to our mission of supporting vulnerable Nova Scotians.
Showcase Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for child and family wellbeing shine through in your written application. Share personal stories or experiences that demonstrate your commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of children and families.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon, so we can easily understand your qualifications and motivations. Remember, less is often more!
Proofread Before Submitting:Take a moment to review your application for any typos or grammatical errors. A polished application shows attention to detail and professionalism, which are key traits for a social worker. And don’t forget to apply through our website!
How to prepare for a job interview at Nova Scotia
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the key responsibilities of a Child Protection Social Worker. Brush up on child development, trauma-informed care, and community resources. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you’re serious about the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past experiences that highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure. Think about times when you’ve successfully advocated for children or families, as these stories will resonate with the interviewers.
✨Emphasise Teamwork
This role requires collaboration with various partners and communities. Be ready to discuss how you’ve worked effectively in teams before, and how you can contribute to a supportive workplace culture. Highlight your ability to be a strong team player.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the team dynamics, ongoing training opportunities, or how the department measures success in child protection. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
